Madrigal - Frequently Asked QuestionsAren't some details missing from the plans ?Too much detail often means cluttered and confusing plans. If you need to know the length of keel bolts, or dimensions of a timber not shown on the plans (for example), check the building instructions first - there's a wealth of information there. Why isn't there a cockpit ?Madrigal was designed with safety in mind for a voyage across open water where the prospect of swamping was a real possibility. To create a cockpit, John's recommendation was to build upwards from the existing aft deck, so that the existing deck becomes the cockpit sole. John did not recommend the installation of a cockpit (or footwell) below the aft deck level, as this would reduce the available space below, as well as requiring the installation of drains. Is Madrigal a seaworthy boat ?As seaworthy as the people aboard! Normal precautions need to be taken of course - also a bottle screw should be fitted in parallel with the fore-stay block and tackle. In a blow, the dory flare results in minimal heeling, and the boat handles a Force 6 comfortably. John commented that the skipper and crew will give in long before the boat will! Are there any recommendations regarding building materials ?Yes. As mentioned, Madrigal was built as a 'disposable' boat and cheap shuttering ply was used for economy. Voids in the ply eventually allowed rot to develop. The hull could have been repaired, but was deemed uneconomic. Even so, 15 years active cruising is a good life for a boat designed to make only one voyage! John recommended the use of a good quality birch-faced plywood (now available from renewable sources), and the use of epoxy adhesive rather than polyester (which was favoured in the 80's). In addition, the fitting of a pair of mushroom vents on the forward deck is recommended, between the hatch and tabernacle. Also a proprietary hatch cover could be used. |